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The concept of peace in the Tao Te Ching

Abstract

This thesis represents a first attempt to analyze Lao Tzu's main method of resolving the social and political problems in Ch'un Ch'iu and Warring States Periods. Lao Tzu, the founder of Taoism, suggested many solutions that could bring an end to the conflicts and to the ending of the disunity of China. Examples of these include the reform or abolishment of some ancient Chinese institutions as well as new principles for the enhancement and preservation of life. All these ideas were to become crystallised in Tao Te Ch'ing, which became an important religious text. In particular, the aspect of Lao Tzu's methods for solving the social and political problems of China in the Warring States Period needs more attention. In each chapter of the Tao Te Ch'ing there was a main emphasis on peace as the main method of developing social cohesion and as a cure to all fundamental human problems. Therefore, Lao Tzu's ideas about peace and his methods of solving the problems of the Warring States period are significant and from the main focus of the thesis.